An embodiment method of resource allocation for sparse code multiple access (SCMA) transmissions includes partitioning a resource block into a plurality of resource regions. The method also includes assigning the plurality of resource regions to respective device groups. The resource region assignments are then signaled to devices of the respective device groups. The method also includes receiving SCMA signals from the devices of the respective device groups. The SCMA signals from one group of the respective device groups are asynchronous with respect to the SCMA signals from another group of the respective device groups.